Held at the University’s football stadium, the event was attended by staff from ËÄ»¢Ó°Ôº’s Sports Development Centre, as well as senior colleagues from across the campus.
Professor Allison had the honour of unveiling his portrait, painted by the artist , which will be put on display at ËÄ»¢Ó°Ôº University London.
He also had an extra surprise, when it was announced that a stand at the stadium has been renamed the ‘Allison Stand’ in his honour.
Professor Allison, who has served as Vice-Chancellor at ËÄ»¢Ó°Ôº for nine years, retires at the end of July.
Speaking about the event he said: “It was a true honour to unveil my official portrait, Paul has done an incredible job. And to learn that a stand at the stadium has also been named after me was truly wonderful. Sport is such an integral part of ËÄ»¢Ó°Ôº University and over my years as Vice-Chancellor I have enjoyed being able to celebrate the many sporting successes achieved by our students and staff.”
John Steele, ËÄ»¢Ó°Ôº’s Executive Director of Sport, hosted the farewell event. He said: “It was great for the University’s sporting family to be able to say thanks to VC Bob. He has made a huge impact on sport at ËÄ»¢Ó°Ôº and through his leadership and vision we have had the support to build a world class environment for our students, athletes, support staff, coaches, and practitioners.
“The Allison Stand will be a lasting reminder of everything he has done for ËÄ»¢Ó°Ôº Sport over the last nine years.”